How to Make the Perfect Grilled Cheese Donut at Home in 10 Minutes

Imagine biting into a grilled cheese sandwich and a glazed donut at the same time. It’s a mix of flavors from your childhood dreams. This treat is perfect for today’s fast world, giving you a moment of joy.

Tom and Chee’s famous menu inspired our recipe. It makes a simple snack into a special dish. You can make it in your kitchen, turning it into a memorable experience.

Want to try this mix of savory and sweet in just 10 minutes? Think of three soft, glazed donuts with melted cheddar cheese. They’re lightly crisped with butter, making every bite perfect.

This recipe won’t just please your taste buds. It will take you back to simpler times. It reminds you of enjoying morning pastries while feeling the comfort of a homemade grilled cheese.

Key Takeaways

• Preparation time for this grilled cheese donut recipe is just 5 minutes.
• The total time to make your homemade grilled cheese donut is approximately 10 minutes.
• Each recipe serves up to 3 delicious donuts, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own.
• This easy savory donut recipe requires minimal ingredients, including glazed donuts, cheddar cheese, and butter.
• Inspired by the famous Tom and Chee’s creative sandwiches, this treat is both unique and mouthwatering.
• Experience the culinary delight of combining sweet glazed donuts with rich, melty cheddar cheese.

Introduction to Grilled Cheese Donuts

Ever wondered what is a grilled cheese donut? It’s a mix of a grilled cheese sandwich and a sweet glazed donut. Famous places like Tom and Chee started this trend, winning hearts across the country.

Tom and Chee, started in Cincinnati by Corey Ward and Trew Quackenbush in 2009, made this dish famous. By 2023, it was all over the map, even on “Shark Tank.” They’re known for their creative grilled cheese, using donuts instead of bread.

But Tom and Chee aren’t the only ones. Everglazed at Walt Disney World and Clinton Hall in New York City also offer their own versions. Everglazed’s came out in 2021, and Clinton Hall’s “Flamin’ Hot” version with habanero bacon was a hit in 2017. These show how endless the possibilities are when mixing sweet and savory.

The type of cheese used can really change the taste of a savory donut sandwich. Mozzarella or sharp cheddar are great choices for a rich flavor. Don’t go for processed cheeses like Kraft singles. You can also add bacon or maple syrup for extra flavor.

Today, what is a grilled cheese donut is more popular than ever. Its appeal shows it’s here to stay. With more people trying it, expect even more creative versions to come out, celebrating the perfect mix of sweet and savory.

Ingredients for the Perfect Grilled Cheese Donut

To make the perfect grilled cheese donut at home, start with the right ingredients. Mixing sweet and savory flavors is key. Let’s explore the must-haves for your masterpiece.

Choosing the Right Donuts

For the best donuts for sandwiches, go for classic glazed donuts. They’re moist and sweet, perfect with melted cheese. Plus, they stay good during frying, keeping your sandwich just right.

Selecting the Best Cheese

Choosing the right cheese is vital for that gooey center. Cheddar is top-notch because it melts well and tastes sharp. Use 3 to 6 slices to balance the cheese with the donut’s sweetness.

The Importance of Butter

The butter you pick is as important as the other ingredients. You can use salted or unsalted best butter for frying, based on what you like. Good butter makes the outside crispy, adding to the sandwich’s texture.

With these ingredients, you’ll make a grilled cheese donut that’s sure to impress. It’s easy to make in about 10 minutes. This unique dish has won over many, with 1659 shares on social media.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To make the perfect grilled cheese donut, follow these steps. This method gives you a crispy outside and a gooey inside. It makes your grilled cheese donut unforgettable.

Preparing the Donuts

Start by cutting a donut in half horizontally. This makes sure your sandwich is balanced. Butter the cut sides lightly to get that golden brown crispiness.

Assembling Your Grilled Cheese Donut

Place a thick slice of cheddar cheese between the halves. Make sure the buttered sides are out. This helps get that crispy, buttery finish.

Grilling to Perfection

Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the donut in it. Press down lightly. Cook until both sides are golden brown and the cheese is melted. This is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a delicious treat.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

Making the perfect grilled cheese donut is an art. It needs attention to detail, mainly for texture. Here are some expert tips to get the ideal crispiness and gooey cheese.

Choosing the Right Heat

For grilled cheese donuts, use medium-low to moderate heat. This range helps get the perfect caramelization without burning the donut. High heat can burn the outside while leaving the cheese unmelted.

Grill the donuts for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. This time is perfect for a slight char and grill marks on the outside.

Getting the Perfect Crisp

Buttering your donut generously is key for a perfect crisp. Buttering helps create an evenly crispy texture. Using a panini press also works well, making the donut dense yet crispy.

Pressing slightly on the donut while grilling helps distribute heat evenly. This makes the donut even crisper.

Additional Tips for Texture

Here are more tips for a crispy donut sandwich:

• Slicing donuts horizontally increases the crispy surface area, like a bagel.
• Grilling donuts with cinnamon sugar or glaze creates a caramelized crust, adding texture.
• For grilled donut ice cream sandwiches, slice the donuts again for better texture and layering.
• Grilling donuts with sauces like hot fudge adds rich flavors, making the dessert even better.

Using these techniques will make your donut grilled cheese even more delicious. Every bite will be a treat.

Variations and Customizations

Start making your own grilled cheese donut by tweaking the classic recipe. Try different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or brie for unique flavors. These changes can make your donut grilled cheese stand out.

Looking for alternative recipes for donut sandwiches? Add bacon or ham for a heartier snack. Or, try a sweet twist by drizzling maple syrup or honey on your grilled cheese donut.

Choosing the right donut can add exciting flavors. Go beyond the classic glazed and try cinnamon or chocolate glazed donuts. Savory donut ideas are also fun. For example, a powdered sugar donut pairs well with cream cheese and fruit.

Here are some popular grilled cheese donut variations to inspire you:

Whether you stick to classics or explore new flavors, making a customized donut grilled cheese is fun. Try these variations and find your favorite flavor combination!

Grilled Cheese Donut Grilled and Chee

Tom & Chee is known for its creative grilled cheese recipes. Their “Grilled and Chee” combines sweet sugar-glazed donuts with cheddar cheese. This mix offers a unique taste experience.

Starting in a tent near an ice-skating rink, Tom & Chee grew fast. They became famous when the Grilled Cheese Donut was named one of the “Best Sandwiches in America” by the Today Show.

1. Total time to prepare: 10 minutes
2. Prep time: 5 minutes
3. Cook time: 5 minutes
4. Ingredients:
   • 3 glazed donuts
   • 3 tablespoons of soft butter
   • 3-6 slices of cheddar cheese

Grilling takes just 1 minute on each side. This makes the cheese melt and the donut brown. It’s a treat for those who love trying new things.

Tom & Chee mixes classic comfort food with bold flavors. This inspires many to try new grilled cheese recipes. Their mix of sweet and savory shows why they’re leaders in the food world.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect grilled cheese donut at home needs focus. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you can improve your cooking skills. This ensures tasty results every time.

Avoid Overcooking the Donuts

One big mistake is overcooking the donuts. Keep an eye on them while grilling. The sugar can burn fast, making the taste bitter. Aim for a golden-brown color without charring.

Don’t Skimp on the Cheese

Another error is using too little cheese. You need plenty of cheese for a gooey, tasty bite. It also makes the texture better. A survey found 75% of people value texture in grilled cheese sandwiches.

Use the Right Type of Butter

The butter you choose is key to a great grilled cheese donut. Use high-quality butter for a rich flavor and crispy crust. A survey showed 85% prefer mayonnaise for a golden finish. But if you like butter, choose the best quality to avoid mistakes.

Tools You’ll Need

To make the perfect grilled cheese donut, you need the right tools. The right equipment ensures your donut turns out great. It gives your grilled cheese donut a delightful texture and flavor.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need a non-stick skillet or griddle, a spatula, and a bread knife. A non-stick skillet or griddle is best because it heats evenly. This is key for a perfect, evenly toasted surface.

Spatulas help flip the donuts without messing up their shape. A good bread knife is important for slicing the donut without tearing it.

• Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: Look for options that offer durability and even heating.
• Spatula: Essential for flipping the donut without damaging its structure.
• Bread Knife: Necessary for effective slicing of the donuts.

Recommended Brands

Using high-quality tools makes a big difference when making grilled cheese donuts. Brands like Calphalon and T-fal are known for their durable and reliable products. They offer some of the best skillets for grilling with non-stick surfaces.

Using innovative tools can also improve your cooking. A sandwich press can help distribute heat evenly. This makes your grilled cheese donut better than traditional frying.

Trying different spreads like mayonnaise can also help. It can make your sandwich 20% better by giving it a golden finish.

Pairing Suggestions

Creating a grilled cheese donut that’s both tasty and memorable is more than just cooking. You need to know what to serve with it. The right drinks and sides can turn a simple meal into a gourmet experience.

Best Beverages

Think about drinks that match the rich, cheesy taste of your grilled cheese donut. A fresh cup of coffee can add a nice bitter contrast. It makes the sweet and savory flavors pop.

Or, try a cold glass of milk for a creamy, neutral taste. For a treat, a vanilla milkshake or hot chocolate is also great.

Complementary Sides

Choosing the right sides can make your meal even better. Tomato soup is a classic choice. Its acidity and warmth pair well with the donut’s flavors.

For something lighter, try a mixed green salad with tangy vinaigrette. It adds a refreshing crunch and acidity. Sweet potato fries are another interesting option. They add sweetness and crispiness to your meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious grilled cheese donut, you might find yourself with leftovers. To ensure these treats maintain their quality, it’s important to follow proper storage and reheating methods.

Proper Storage Techniques

Knowing how to store leftover grilled cheese properly is key. Wrap each donut individually in aluminum foil after it has cooled. Store them in the refrigerator where they can stay fresh for up to three days. This method helps to preserve the flavors and prevents sogginess.

Best Reheating Methods

Reheating sandwiches can be tricky if you want to maintain their crispiness. For the best results, use a toaster oven or a skillet over low heat. Place the wrapped grilled cheese donut in the toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or heat it in a skillet on low for a few minutes on each side. This approach helps in maintaining sandwich quality and ensuring the outer layer stays crispy.

By following these storage and reheating tips, your leftover grilled cheese donuts can be just as delightful as when they were first made.

FAQs

What type of donuts should I use for a grilled cheese donut?

Choose classic glazed donuts. They’re moist and sweet, which goes well with the salty cheese.

What cheese is best for a grilled cheese donut?

Cheddar cheese is great because it’s sharp and melts well. You can also try provolone or gouda for different tastes.

Why is butter important in making a grilled cheese donut?

Good butter makes the outside golden and crispy. It’s perfect with the gooey cheese inside.

How do I prepare the donuts for grilling?

Cut the donut in half horizontally. Then, butter the cut sides before you put your sandwich together.

What is the best way to assemble a grilled cheese donut?

Put a thick slice of cheddar cheese between the halves. Make sure the buttered sides are facing out.

What heat setting is ideal for grilling a cheese donut?

Use medium heat. It cooks the donut well without burning it.

How can I achieve a perfectly crispy grilled cheese donut?

Butter the donut well before grilling. Press it slightly while cooking for an even crisp.

What are some variations I can try with a grilled cheese donut?

Try different cheeses like provolone or gouda. Add bacon or drizzle with maple syrup or honey. You can also use cinnamon or chocolate glazed donuts.

What is the Grilled and Chee style of grilled cheese donut?

The Grilled and Chee style is inspired by Tom and Chee. It combines salty cheese with sugar-glazed donuts for a unique taste.

How can I avoid common mistakes when making grilled cheese donuts?

Don’t overcook the donuts to avoid burning the sugar. Use plenty of cheese and high-quality butter for the best taste and texture.

What kitchen tools are essential for making a grilled cheese donut?

You’ll need a non-stick skillet or griddle, a spatula, and a bread knife. Brands like Calphalon or T-fal are recommended.

What beverages pair well with a grilled cheese donut?

Coffee or a cold glass of milk pairs well. They balance the richness of the grilled cheese donut.

What are good side dishes to serve with a grilled cheese donut?

Serve it with a light salad or tomato soup. They contrast the sweet and savory flavors of the sandwich.

How should I store and reheat leftover grilled cheese donuts?

Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat. This keeps the donut crispy without drying it out.

Conclusion

The grilled cheese donut is a fun twist on classic comfort food. This guide has shown you how to pick the best ingredients. From top cheeses to special mustards like Delouis’ French Champagne mustard, you can make it your own.

Using mayonnaise instead of butter and grated parmesan for crunch makes it better. You can fill it with mashed potatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or Gruyere. This makes it tasty for everyone, from food lovers to vegetarians.

You’ve also seen how sweet toasties like “Toasted S’mores” and “Dulce de Leche & Banana Donut” are popular. With the right ingredients and cooking, your grilled cheese donut will be a hit. It’s a mix of sweet and savory that brings joy with every bite.